The man behind the project is Liverpool-based Signature Living developer Lawrence Kenwright who says that site clearing could begin almost immediately.
The new hotel is expected to add 150 new jobs to the Northern Ireland hospitality sector. The hotel, which will be named Lanyon Hotel after the building’s original architect, Charles Lanyon, will have a rooftop extension to accommodate function space. The main courtroom is being retained and restored to become a focal point for tourists, according to the planning application.
The remainder of the ground floor will become the reception/bar area, kitchen, and guest rooms. There will be spa facilities in the basement rooms, with further accommodation to the upper floors.
The developer Lawrence Kenwright said the building would be restored sympathetically, with regard to the heritage of the building and will work with conservation bodies in the restoration and construction
Many of Mr Kenwright’s businesses are located in listed buildings. The Exchange in Cardiff was dilapidated prior to its opening last year.
The conversion of the Crumlin Road Courthouse will be Mr Kenwright’s third hotel project in Belfast.
He is also currently transforming the old Scottish Mutual Building, next to Belfast City Hall, into the new George Best Hotel, which will open later this year.
